Honours for Eflyn Evans on Wales Rally GB as young hotshot wows rally world
Rising Welsh rally star Elfyn Evans exceeded all expectations on Wales Rally GB at the weekend winning his class in the Hankook Fiesta.
The 18 year old son of former British Rally Champion Gwyndaf Evans produced one of the most impressive drives of the three day rally – the Cardiff-based finale to the World Rally Championship.
The youngster wowed the rallying world finishing the event 42nd overall – a massive climb from his start number of 118, and an indication of his potential in the future.
Together with co-driver Richard Edwards the pair faced 17 high speed tests in the Welsh forests – tackling some of the worst conditions ever seen on Wales Rally GB.
They had to contend with torrential rain, blanket fog and extremely muddy conditions, but nothing fazed Elfyn who hails from Dolgellau in mid-Wales.
While many cars suffered punctures from the rocky tracks and body damage in the tough conditions, Elfyn and Richard successfully navigated everything in their path.
Speaking at the finish ramp in Cardiff, Elfyn said he was delighted to have completed Wales Rally GB, and to win his class against international competition.
“We settled into a steady pace, we had no mechanical problems and the Hankook tyres were excellent in all conditions and unlike others around us we didn’t suffer a single puncture,’’ said Elfyn.
“To finish back here after such a tough event is just amazing and to have done so well with a class win gives us great confidence for the future.’’
Elfyn was greeted at the finish by proud dad Gwyndaf who said he had been extremely impressed with his son’s performance. “He has driven a very mature rally, posted some good stage times, and he has not put a scratch on the car – you can’t ask for more than that!’’
For Eflyn, who was also supported on his efforts by the Trefeddian Hotel at Aberdyfi, the highlight was successfully negotiating the stages on the Epynt ranges on Saturday – notoriously tricky tests which he said suited his driving style.
Hankook Motorsports manager Mike Patterson said the tyre giant was delighted with the outstanding success of the youngster. “Last year we supported Gwyndaf in the Mitsubishi Evo Challenge which he won outright and we are thrilled to have supported Elfyn in his stunning drive on Wales Rally GB.’’
